AFoCO and Mongolia sign MoU for Non-Timber Forest Products project (AFoCO/035/2022)

(From the Left) Ms. YoungJu Han, Dr. Junghwan Park, Mr. Sunpil Jin, Dr. Pham Duc Chien

11 May 2023 – Asian Forest Cooperation Organization (AFoCO) and the Forest Agency of the Department of Forest Policy and Coordination of Mongolia have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the Project titled “Improved local community livelihoods through increased income from Non-timber Forests Products (NTFP): Modelling scalable community-based enterprises in Asia”, marking a significant step towards sustainable forest management. This collaboration focuses on utilizing NTFPs and aims to empower local communities while conserving Mongolia’s precious forests.

The MoU signing ceremony highlighted the shared commitment of AFoCO and Mongolia towards empowering local communities and safeguarding forests through the sustainable utilization of NTFPs. Both parties expressed their dedication to the success of this collaboration and emphasized its importance.

In his remarks, Mr. Sunpil Jin, vice executive director of AFoCO, expressed gratitude for Mongolia’s cooperation and acknowledged the increasing interest in NTFPs among member countries. AFoCO stressed the inclusive nature of the project, involving all member countries in site and capacity enhancement activities. The organization looks forward to achieving tangible outcomes through this collaborative effort.

Dr. Oyunsanaa Byambasuren, Director General of the Department of Forest Policy and Coordination, Mongolia, expressed deep appreciation for AFoCO’s initiatives and recognized the value-added income and proper utilization of NTFPs for local communities. Mongolia emphasized the significance of the project for all member countries and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to be part of this endeavor. He conveyed hopes for the project’s great success and reiterated Mongolia’s commitment to active participation and support.

The collaboration between AFoCO and Mongolia is centered around promoting sustainable practices and enhancing capacities for NTFP utilization. By equipping communities with necessary skills and knowledge and facilitating the exchange of best practices, AFoCO and Mongolia aim to foster sustainable forest management practices throughout the region. This partnership exemplifies AFoCO’s commitment to regional cooperation. It sets the stage for future efforts in environmental sustainability and economic growth. By harnessing NTFPs and empowering communities, AFoCO and Mongolia aim to protect forests, preserve biodiversity, and support sustainable development.

The signing of the MoU reflects the joint commitment of AFoCO and Mongolia towards a greener future. By harnessing the potential of NTFPs and empowering local communities, they aim to protect forests, preserve biodiversity, and support sustainable development. This collaboration serves as an inspiring example of regional cooperation for the benefit of forests and future generations.

(From the Left) Ms. Zoljargal Sainbuyan, Dr. Oyunsanaa Byambasuren, Ms. Uyanga Puntsagdash, Ms. YoungJu Han, Mr. Sungho Choi, Dr. Junghwan Park, Mr. Sunpil Jin, Mr. Pham Duc Chien, Ms. Tshering Zam

Contributed by Ms. YoungJu HAN, Project Management Coordinator

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